The Carolina Panthers have announced that starting quarterback Cam Newton will not be available to play in the team’s opening preseason game, according to Associated Press writer Steve Reed.

Newton underwent surgery for a torn rotator cuff in his throwing shoulder back in March. He has participated in light throwing sessions since returning to training camp.

The decision to sit Newton out comes as little surprise. Since undergoing surgery, Newton has been progressing on schedule and is still expected to be ready for the Panthers regular season opener against the San Francisco 49ers. He is likely to be ready for the final 3 preseason games as well.

Newton is coming off a disappointing 2016 season. Following a 2015 campaign that saw him named the NFLMVP, Newton finished this past season with a career low 75.8 QB rating. The Panthers finished at the bottom of the NFC South with a paltry 6-10 record.

The Panthers open their preseason slate tomorrow night when they host the Houston Texans at Bank of America Stadium.